Written by Nelson Maldonado, post commander

This past weekend, Oscar M. Hykes American Legion Post 223 in Shippensburg stood united in a powerful triple celebration: America’s 250th anniversary, The American Legion’s 107th birthday and the formal rededication of the post itself.
As the ceremony opened, representatives from every branch of the American Legion Family - Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of The American Legion, American Legion Riders and Minuteman Honor Guard - marched the colors forward. The gathering rose, hands over hearts, while bugler Kevin sounded the call. On the first note, the flags were raised briskly, the Stars and Stripes always held highest.
Commander Nelson Maldonado and his granddaughter Elena then led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance. The national anthem followed, delivered with quiet strength by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 223 Historian and Gold Star Mother Mary Hayslett.
The color team stood side by side as one family - those who served, those who supported them, those who carry the legacy forward and those who honor it through continued action. Their presence reflected the enduring strength of a shared mission that spans generations.
Post Historian Guy Hayslett shared the story of Post 223, grounding the day in the post’s deep roots. State Sen. Doug Mastriano and State Rep. Catherine Wallen presented the post with a citation recognizing both its history and its ongoing service. American Legion 19th District Commander Jamie Lethiecq delivered a power message to all in attendance.
With the tolling of the Remembrance Bell, the assembly marked the Legion’s 107th birthday and rededicated Post 223. The moment was more than ceremonial. It reaffirmed the post’s identity, its commitment to the four pillars, and its promise to serve veterans, support their families and strengthen the community for generations to come - honoring the original American Expeditionary Forces who founded the Legion in Paris in 1919.
A living connection to the post’s namesake was present as well. Oscar M. Hykes’s great-nephew, James Hykes - grandson of Oscar’s brother James, a World War II medic who served in the Pacific and at Guadalcanal - shared a message from the Hykes family. His presence reminded everyone of the personal sacrifice and enduring pride that still bind the post to its founding namesake. Thank you, Laura and Jimmy Hykes, for honoring our post and community